Hawaii is the island of paradise. I was lucky enough to vacation down on the Big Island, and later a long layover in Honolulu. On the Big Island, the main areas are Kailua-Kona and Hilo, which is about a 3-4 hours drive apart. I spend one day exploring the west side of the island, and another day spent on the east side of the island. Through the crazy rainy weather, intensive driving sessions, and desire for adventure, this trip has been the most memorable thus far.

On the west side, known as Kailua-Kona, I started off my trip bright an early at 9am. Craving breakfast, I got the chance to try out the famous Hawaiian favorite Loco moco. The traditional loco moco consists of white rice, topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy. It is a popular breakfast item, and I knew I had to try it. I tried it at 808 Grindz Cafe located near the pier area of Kailua-Kona, and it only cost $8.08. Extremely savory and satisfying, I enjoyed the gravy that covered the hamburger patty. Definitely the best way to start the trip. 

Loco Moco

Also had to get my hands on some Shaved Ice, so it was so humid during the summer. I went with a mixture of lihingmui, watermelon, and melona. Definitely refreshing and worth sharing with someone before taking a 3 hour drive to the other side of the island.

First stop was to Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park. It includes the puʻuhonua and a complex of archeological sites including: temple platforms, royal fishponds, sledding tracks, and some coastal village sites. The Hale o Keawe temple and several thatched structures have been reconstructed. There are also many statues around the beach area that believed to be protectors of the refuge. You must pay a small $5 fee pass that allows you to visit the park for a week. The sand here is more like pebbles but a certain section of the beach are used for recreational kayaking and other water sports.

Protector of the refuge

Next drove along the southern point of the island towards Hilo to go and see the Volcanoes. I was unaware about the afternoon showers that are common in Hawaii, and it made driving difficult along the widening road. In addition, the night drive was the scariest experience I have ever endured since there were very few street lights causing me to drive very carefully. This added an an extra hour to the drive when heading back to Kona. Along the coast, the scenery is beautiful with lush green cliffs and tall evergreens spanning the roads.

Near Pahala

Barely hitting sunset, I finally reached Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. At its heart are the Kīlauea and Mauna Loa active volcanoes. The Crater Rim Drive passes steam vents and the Jaggar Museum, which features volcanology exhibits and a viewpoint overlooking Halema’uma’u Crater. Thick ferns mark the entrance to the Thurston Lava Tube (Nāhuku). Paying a $5 fee, you have access to drive through the entire park and stop by all the attractions. The best time to see the volcano itself would be after sunset, but because of the drive back, I was unable to catch it at the brightest. 

Catching the Lava before sunset

One of the smaller vents in the park

Entrance to the Lava Tube, currently the lights inside the cave is broken

Sadly was unable to see the Tube clearly due to the broken lights. I had to use my Iphone flashlight to guide me through the tunnel. If you are afraid of the dark or possible claustrophobic, probably best to avoid this attraction until the lights are fixed.